French woman compares festivities in India to Europe’s, viral post sparks conversation: ‘Loneliness cries silently’

However, in India, she says, the idea of someone being left out during a festival seems “almost unimaginable.”

“Since moving, I’ve never celebrated a festival alone. Neighbours, friends of friends, even complete strangers always made sure I was included,” she shared, adding that the warmth she has experienced has left a lasting impression.

She described the unique joy of participating in public celebrations filled with music, rituals, food, and above all, human connection. “That human warmth, with food, music, rituals shared on the streets with friends as much as family, is what makes me feel so welcome and happy here,” she said.

See the post here:

Festivals being celebrated openly in the street instead of behind closed door is one of the things I love the most in India.

The closest I can compare it to is Christmas. But in Europe (at least in my experience), once the day comes, people disappear into their homes. If you… pic.twitter.com/TDVitT69dI

— Julia Chaigneau (@juliachaigneau) September 28, 2025

The post resonated with numerous social media users, with one saying, “Yes one of the best things in India is in every neighbourhood the festivities are to get everyone closer… one does not celebrate in isolation.” Another user commented, “That’s why I chose to not go live abroad. Loneliness cries silently among all the shiny infrastructure in those places.”

“As an Indian, when I was in Europe on christmas day, it came as a shock to me. The largest, most important festival in Europe and the streets were empty, shops closed, silence everywhere. I wished it was more “merry”,” a third user reacted.